Best Long Island School Districts for Special Education (New York, Plainview: rent, lease)

[Septamom]

My friend's son is PDD. He started out in Variety Child Learning Center and went on to the Plainview School District. Variety was a great start they really know what they are doing. My son is LD/speech delayed he also went to Variety (thank God). My friend raves about Plainview. The programs are the best and the teachers go the extra mile.
Whenever she talks about the Plainview school district the tears always start. She is so greatful to be there. I have looked into most of the school districts on the North Shore for Special Ed for PDD I have to agree with my friend. Half Hollow Hills is also great.

[HearUs]

Hi
Just wanted to say to BLUU2000, I haven't heard too much feedback from Garden City except they place some of their children out of district for some reason. New Hyde Park I believe is Herricks school district which has received some positive feedback. I was a NYC teacher it's so ironic how years ago people felt that the city didn't provide a quality education or proper services. Now they are trying to become the leader in their spec ed programs. They are using scientific based programs and methods to teach their kids. But again, where you live will depend on who has the better program and understanding of how to implement it. My whole idea on what's the best district and program goes on this; you can have a million dollar program but the person(teacher) implementing it is the key. She/he will determine the success of the class and child. Your spec ed team has to have training and an understanding of what is going to be taught. Quality people are hard to find sometimes because they quickly move through and on to better positions. Districts are hiring inexperienced personnel so they can save money. But they end up paying in the end when they to need to hire consultants, mentors, & more aides. A word of advice just remember everything you request must go into your child's IEP. We can't take the word that things will happen. If you are uncertain about his transition into school, when meeting at your CSE ask for a 30-45 day review from the first day of school. Request monthly team meetings, they can be done. It doesn't hurt to ask and push. I feel and have sat on the other side I can say when it seems a parent is not backing down and knows what they want for the child and can support it, the committee considers it.
As for other districts any feedback on Oceanside, Rockville Ctr, Plainview? SEPTAMOM you said your friend was thrilled with POB, any specifics on their program? Thanks.

[sharon s]

Does anyone know anything about Summit school in Queens?How about Gersh Academy?

[lynn37]

Gersh Academy is a special school in Melville. When I was having problems with my son his psychiatrist recommended Gersh very highly. I did call them and they sent me literature about the school. If I had the money I would send my son there. They have a program called I Am I Can. It is all about teaching the kids in a small structured setting and tapping into the way that specific child learns. Give them a call and Good Luck.

[Septamom]

When my friend's son went into the Plainview district she was so upset. The school walked her through the program he would have. Two days prior to the start of school the teacher came to her home she spent about 2hrs. with my her son getting to know him so the transition was easy for him. They also involve the kids in all of the programs going on in the school. It is one community they are not excluded.

I will get back to you with more info on the program. Like HearUs said the teachers are the key.

[HearUs]

Hi All

There are lots of messages on NSASA message board about LI Districts & schools. You need to join their Yahoo group. Great place to gather resources and data for your search on the right school and program.

[pjandamom]

can you send me the link for the NSASA group???

[NPTMama]

Honestly, it really doesn't matter where you live on Long Island for special needs services. All the schools are affiliated with Boces and they have wonderful full day programs throughout Suffolk and Nassau for all kinds of special needs. The only drawback is that you have to FIGHT your school district to recommend your child because they have to release the funds they receive and believe me they hate giving up their money.

[mommytochris]

Originally Posted by NPTMama

Honestly, it really doesn't matter where you live on Long Island for special needs services. All the schools are affiliated with Boces and they have wonderful full day programs throughout Suffolk and Nassau for all kinds of special needs. The only drawback is that you have to FIGHT your school district to recommend your child because they have to release the funds they receive and believe me they hate giving up their money.

This is the truth. They also use scare tactics to make you think Boces is a dumping ground for all the kids that disrticts can't handle. My son left district and is in a higher functioning class with more appropriate peers now that he is in Premm Learning Center. They have been amazing with him. My district had me terrified that he was stepping down and what a horrible place Boces is and it is SO THE OPPOSITE!!! See for yourself is the only thing I can suggest do't take the districts word since it is all about the money for administration. Usually.

[LauraJ333]

I would love to hear some feedback on special ed services in Miller Place, Rocky Point, Mt, Sinai and Pt Jefferson (village) districts. Availability of services and all...